Evaluation of FSW on High Yield Strength Steels for Shipbuilding

FSW process has been evaluated on three shipbuilding steels (DH36, S690QL and 80HLES steels) by fully penetrated butt welds on 8mm thick plates. Non destructive tests were carried out to highlight the presence of intrinsic defects known for the welding process (eg kissing bond). The validated inspection methodology (volume and surface testing) confirm the integrity of welds and the absence of geometrical defects for examinations and mechanical tests as part of a qualification procedure.